Bucs WR Mike Evans sets Week 1 deadline for new deal

Star wide receiver Mike Evans has set a Week 1 deadline to receive a new contract with the Buccaneers.

Star wide receiver Mike Evans, the captain of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has set a Week 1 deadline to receive a new contract with the team. Evans, who is entering the final season of his current five-year, $82.5 million extension, expressed his desire to continue his career with an organization that values him and has aspirations of winning a Super Bowl. His representatives at Day 1 Sports and Entertainment announced that contract discussions will cease on September 9, 2023. This announcement comes as the Buccaneers prepare to open their season against the Minnesota Vikings on September 10.

At 30 years old, Evans is a four-time Pro Bowl selection and holds the record for the most consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons at nine. He played a pivotal role in the Buccaneers' victory in Super Bowl LV and currently holds franchise records for catches, receiving yards, and touchdown receptions. Despite his impressive accomplishments, the Buccaneers' agent, Deryk Gilmore, revealed that the team is hesitant to have two wide receivers earning more than $20 million per season, as Chris Godwin is also under a lucrative contract.

Evans has made it clear that he wishes to remain with the Buccaneers for the entirety of his career, expressing his desire to be a "Buc for life." However, Day 1 Sports and Entertainment stated that Evans has not received any offers from the team to extend his contract. They emphasized that their goal is to secure Evans' future with the Buccaneers, but if an agreement cannot be reached, Evans will shift his focus entirely to football and finding a team where he can continue to make an impact.

It is worth noting that Evans ranks third in NFL history for the most 1,000-yard seasons, trailing only Hall of Fame receivers Jerry Rice and Randy Moss. His exceptional performance on the field and his desire for a long-term commitment from the Buccaneers make him a valuable asset in the league.

In conclusion, Mike Evans' contract negotiations with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have reached a critical point, with the star wide receiver setting a Week 1 deadline. As one of the most accomplished receivers in NFL history, Evans aims to secure his future with a team that values his contributions and shares his Super Bowl aspirations. The Buccaneers must now decide whether to meet Evans' demands or risk losing a player who has been instrumental in their success. The outcome of these negotiations will undoubtedly have a significant impact on both Evans' career and the future of the Buccaneers' receiving corps.